Little Advice Please

[Quixotic]

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I am finishing my first year in medical school and am interested in Ophtho and have a few questions. How competitive are the programs? I have been working on three different research projects over the course of the year and expect four publications by the time I apply, however none of the research is in ophthalmology. Will that hurt me or will they just like to see that I have research experience and publications? Also, how important is volunteer work? Do I need to show lots of involvement in the community? How about grades and board score averages. Do I need to be AOA? How do you get to know the department heads for letters of recommendation if none of the 3rd year rotations are in Ophtho? Sorry for all the questions, I just want to maximize my chances.

Q

 

[JMK2005]

Have you looked at the FAQ yet?

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=66427

 

[rubensan]

Also look at:

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=191024
http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=190234

In short, I believe grades and board scores are important, so study hard for Step I. AOA can only help you. I got my letters of rec in ophtho by working hard and publishing papers with ophtho faculty who wanted to help me with my career...they were not necessarily department "heads." Other letters came from internal med and Gsurg, so do well in your required rotations as well. Remember, our broad knowlede of medicine (not just ophtho) is a fundamental aspect that separates us from the optoms. And finally, I think research in ophthalmology shows interest and dedication to the field. If you are worried about meeting people in the field, research is a great way to get aquainted. Ask some of the 4th year medical students at your school (who matched in ophtho) or the current ophtho residents how they did things.

Good luck!
Ruben